Oct. 9, 2012 -- The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission (LWFC) adopted a notice of intent (NOI) Oct. 4 to amend the rules and regulations governing falconry (hunting with a trained bird of prey such as a hawk).
The NOI presented by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) replaces the existing rules for the sport with expanded rules that combine state rules with federal rules.
Currently, falconers are required to obtain a state and federal falconry permit and a Louisiana Game Breeder’s License. Effective January 1, 2014, the USFWS will no longer issue falconry permits and individual states wishing to retain falconry programs must adopt their own regulations based on minimum criteria set forth by the USFWS.
The NOI provides for three classes of falconers including apprentice, general and master. A permit applicant is required to pass a written exam and serve a two-year apprenticeship with a general or master falconer. LDWF will also establish an electronic reporting system for falconers, replacing the current paper system.
To view the full notice of intent, visit http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/action-items.
Public comment will be accepted at any monthly LWFC meeting through Dec. 6, 2012 or can be submitted to Kenny Ribbeck, LDWF Wildlife Division, P. O. Box 98000, Baton Rouge, LA 70898-9000, or kribbeck@wlf.la.gov through Dec. 5, 2012.
For more information, contact Melissa Collins at (225) 763-8584 or mcollins@wlf.la.gov.
The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana's abundant natural resources. For more information, visit us at www.wlf.louisiana.gov on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ldwffb or follow us on Twitter @LDWF.